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According to an FOI request submitted by online pharmacy chemist-4-u.com, two cases have been treated by the NHS in Torquay.

Although the condition is considerably more common in males, a 21-year-old woman and 54-year-old man have been diagnosed in the Devon seaside resort.

Shamir Patel, pharmacist and managing director of Chemist 4 U, advised locals to keep an eye on their sexual health — as initial LGV symptoms are remarkable similar to the nation's most common STI, chlamydia.

Shamir Patel, pharmacist and managing director of Chemist 4 U

“LGV is a rare and serious sexually transmitted infection,” he said.

“It is a form of chlamydia that attacks the lymph nodes which are responsible for fighting infections.

“When left untreated LGV can cause elephantiasis which can lead to enormous growths in the genital area which may have to be surgically removed.”